Retail Trust, a prominent charity in the retail industry, is gearing up to host the second edition of its highly anticipated wellbeing festival for retail workers called Together Fest. Taking place on May 25 at the Truman Brewery in London, this year’s festival is expected to attract employees from 200 of the largest retail brands, including Next, H&M, Paul Smith, River Island, and The White Company. In a significant increase from last year’s event, the festival has doubled in size and will be able to accommodate approximately 1,200 attendees.
The inspiration for Together Fest came from Retail Trust’s research, which uncovered distressing statistics about the state of the industry. The study revealed that one-third of employees in the UK’s biggest retailers considered leaving their jobs. Furthermore, a staggering 80% of retail workers experienced declines in their mental health due to ongoing worries about finances, customer abuse, and the toll of the post-pandemic landscape.
The primary objective of Together Fest is to align with Retail Trust’s mission of enhancing the hope, health, and happiness of the three million individuals working in the UK’s retail sector. The festival will offer a diverse range of activities, including inspiring talks, masterclasses, and interactive sessions. Esteemed wellness champions and celebrities like comedian Katherine Ryan, TV doctor Dr Alex George, and former England footballer Stuart Pearce will grace the event with their presence.
The festival agenda features discussions on crucial topics such as preventing burnout, making healthier lifestyle choices, and raising awareness about domestic abuse. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in masterclasses where they can learn effective techniques to improve their sleep, overcome imposter syndrome, and navigate life’s challenges. Workshops and performances will also be available, with highlights including a live poetry recital by mental health activist Charly Cox, laughter yoga sessions, and healthy cookery demonstrations.
Chris Brook-Carter, the CEO of Retail Trust, is full of enthusiasm for the festival, stating, “Together Fest encapsulates everything that the Retail Trust has always represented. Our goal is to equip individuals with the necessary tools to elevate their wellbeing and instill a genuine sense of pride in working within the retail industry. Building on the success of last year’s event and the invaluable feedback received from hundreds of retail workers who attended, we have worked tirelessly to make this year’s Together Fest even bigger and better.”
Together Fest is an extraordinary initiative that prioritizes the wellbeing of retail workers in a sector facing numerous challenges. By providing resources, support, and a strong sense of community, Retail Trust is taking significant strides to address the obstacles encountered by those in the industry. The festival promises to be a day filled with inspiration, education, and personal growth, ultimately contributing to the overall happiness and resilience of retail workers across the UK.
[Here are two useful links relevant to the article:Retail Trust Official Website] [Together Fest Official Website]
